Group test: Budget stereo amplifiers £180-£250 pt2

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Overview Price: £170 More info: Marantz Size: 161x440x343mm Weight: 6kg Power output: 2x30W Line level inputs: 5 Phono stage: yes Tape loops: 2 Tone control: yes Headphone output: yes Marantz PM-4001 The Marantz PM-4001 has been around for a while but still competes with recently revamped models for sound quality and also claims the most competitive price tag in this test. The solidly constructed main unit, elegant finishing and responsive controls belie the amp's budget status. With 30 watts amplification for each channel it isn't the most powerful on paper specification but features include full tone controls, second room facilities and a complete suite of connections with five line inputs, two tape loops, a preamp output and a phono stage as standard. The typically even, well-balanced sound is equally adept at delivering hard-hitting dynamics as it is exposing acoustic subtleties, which affords impressive flexibility for a low price. The amp's neutral tonality offers plenty of detailed expression with vocals accompanied by decent dynamics and superb timing that creates an easy listening experience without sounding strained. There is a slight lack of drive and impact compared to rival models from Cambridge Audio and Rotel and low frequencies rarely venture from their comfort zone - although using the loudness function can enhance extremes at the expense of some clarity. High frequencies are more controlled and refined and, while the PM-4001 can't quite equal the class leaders, its excellent sound performance is outstanding value for money.

Verdict Plus points Competitive price; solid construction; neutral tonality; flexible listening Minus points Lacks a little drive

Overview Price: £250 More info: Rotel Size: 437x72x342mm Weight: 5.9kg Power output: 2x40W Line level inputs: 6 Phono stage: yes Tape loops: 2 Tone control: yes Headphone output: yes Rotel RA-04 Rotel's RA-04 is essentially the same amplifier as the company's highly acclaimed RA-05 model, featuring an identical design and specification but without an accompanying remote control - and for £100 less. That's quite a saving for having to occasionally leave your seat and sound performance is completely uncompromised compared to the more expensive alternative. Compared to its test rivals, the Rotel's slim, understated design appears clean and classy with immaculate build quality and finishing. There's a reasonable 40 watts amplification per channel with advanced internal architecture and a full range of features including tone controls, six line inputs, two tape loops and a phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts. There's also a front 3.5mm jack that can be connected directly to an MP3 player. The absence of any remote control electronics actually seems to deliver a purer sound with a cohesive delivery that creates a beautifully assembled whole from seamlessly separated parts. The sound is carefully controlled and refined with outstanding detail and an easy-going nature that surprisingly doesn't flinch when faced with challenging material. Even at high volumes, the unstrained delivery boasts taut, agile low frequencies alongside an emotive midrange and clear, detailed treble for a delightfully balanced presentation that's almost independent of your accompanying equipment.

Verdict Plus points Elegant design; detailed, unstrained delivery; all round ability Minus points No remote control

Final verdict An impressive set of ratings across the board proves the quality of performance that can be afforded at the entry-level but there is still one clear winner. Rotel's RA-04 is simply the best sounding amplifier with a virtually flawless delivery with whatever you care to play - even if it doesn't have a remote. Both Cambridge Audio's Azur 540A V.2.0 and Marantz's PM-4001 are exceptional value for money for the performance they deliver. But, compared to the class-leader, the Marantz struggles with drive while the powerful Cambridge Audio is susceptible to brightness and doesn't include a phono stage as standard. Denon's PMA-700AE is a competent model with useful features but the inflated price and unbalanced performance mean you can get more for your money.

< Previous page: Cambridge Audio Azur 540 v2.0, Denon PMA-700AE 1 2

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